Two astronauts stuck on ISS to return to Earth in 2025

Hibapress

Two American astronauts who were flown to the International Space Station (ISS) by Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft will not return to Earth until next February with SpaceX, NASA announced on Saturday.

The decision was made because of ongoing concerns about Boeing’s ship’s propulsion systems.

Astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stuck on the ISS since June 5 due to failures in the capsule’s propulsion systems.

“The decision to keep Butch and Suni on board the International Space Station and bring the Boeing Starliner home without a crew is the result of a commitment to safety,” NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said at a news conference.

NASA’s decision highlights setbacks Boeing has suffered in recent years. Boeing’s defense unit, which handles its space programs, has suffered cost overruns and lengthy delays.

The US space agency selected Boeing and SpaceX in 2014 to develop spacecraft to carry astronauts to and from the ISS.